Shorter negative list opens more industries

China unveiled on March 25 a new, shortened negative list for market access, opening more industries to Chinese and foreign investment, according to the country’s top economic regulator.

Experts said the move is a continuation of the country’s ongoing efforts to expand market access and introduce greater opening-up.

The National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Commerce jointly released the updated negative list for 2022, which indicates areas where investment is prohibited or restricted; all other areas are presumed to be open. It now comprises 117 items, down from 123 in the 2020 version.

Cui Weijie, deputy director of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said he believes the government will continue to shorten the negative list.